As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, residents expressed anxiety over the increased number of cases and closures of schools, businesses, and services.
Canadian Mental Health Association Wood Buffalo (CMHA) announced they would provide support services on Zoom.
“COVID-19: Mental Health and Wellbeing” covers several topics on anxiety, loss, resiliency, and compassion starting March 30, 2020.
Register for a selection of peer supports with morning and evening classes for the following subjects:
- Dealing with Uncontrollable Circumstances
- March 30 at 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., and 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Resilience
- April 1 at 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., and 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Accepting the Unwanted Guest
- April 6 at 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., and 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Dealing with the Inner Critic
- April 8 at 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., and 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Window of Tolerance
- April 14 at 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., and 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Self-love (Compassion)
- April 15 at 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., and 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Finding Motivation
- April 20 at 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., and 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Emma Jones, CMHA Director of Marketing and Community Relations, said residents can reduce their anxiety now when it comes to COVID-19.
She said residents should stay focused if they begin feeling overwhelmed.
“Frequently washing your hands, avoiding large gatherings, having an isolation plan and making sure you are following the guidelines recommended by Alberta Health Services are all ways you can feel in control during this difficult time.”
Jones said it is normal to feel anxiety.
She adds residents prone to mental health issues should identify friends and family who can offer support as well as mental wellness services.
A phone call or video chat can make a great difference.
“Take time throughout the day to avoid checking your newsfeed, especially before bedtime. Allow yourself time to focus on activities you enjoy and bring positivity to your life. Reading, listening to music or doing some meditation are all great ways to destress when you are unable to attend regular activities in the community.”
Regular exercise, outdoor time, and good eating and sleeping habits benefit mental wellness.
Jones said as the COVID-19 pandemic develops, children and young people may have questions or show signs of mental distress.
“Have age-appropriate conversations with your children and answer any questions they may have in a language they understand. Reassure them they are safe and that it is okay to feel anxious or scared.”
Hinting on lessons learned from the 2016 wildfire, Jones added residents should keep the lines of communication open with loved ones.
For more information on mental wellness and the online classes, go to the CMHA website.
